The Cape Town Junior City Council elected their Junior Executive Members on Saturday, May 10, 2025 and continued a longstanding tradition of raising future leaders.
Reportedly, the Junior City Council celebrated the election of a new leadership team that included the Junior Mayor, Junior Deputy Mayor, Junior Speaker and Junior Chief Whip. This marked the 52nd election since the Council’s establishment in 1971 showcased its ongoing commitment to youth leadership development.
The newly elected Executive Members are:
- Michael-Daniel Bam as Junior Mayor
- Matthew Kriel as Junior Deputy Mayor
- Mizero Hope Munyandekwe as Junior Speaker
- Luniko Nokhepeyi as Junior Chief Whip
Elections for Junior Executive Members follows a month of spirited internal campaigning, where Junior Councillors articulated their visions for the JCC, outlining the initiatives that they planned to champion the legacy that they aim to build as ethical, community-focused leaders.
The Custodian of the JCC – Councillor Donovan Nelson reflected on the significance of the event, and stated that this is his fourth year as the Custodian and it is incredible to see how far they have come. It inspires them to hear young leaders and share their vision for the city ad their desire to play an active role.
Considering this, the Newly elected Junior Mayor – Michael-Daniel Bam delivered an inspiring message and said, “Cape Town we are a city of contrast but also of courage. A city of history but also of hope. And we, the youth, are not just the future – we are the now. We have a role to play in ensuring that no voice goes unheard and no challenge goes unaddressed.”
The recent graduate and Peer Counsellor at UCT – Zukile Ntentema was also present at the ceremony and delivered a moving keynote address. He emphasised that this achievement is the ability to use your talents, your position and your energy to uplift others.
It’s about making sure that your leadership is not about being in the spotlight, but about turning the spotlight on the issues that matter and real opportunities for every young person in Cape Town, not just a few.
Speaker of Council – Alderman Felicity Purchase expressed her enthusiasm and said that he is thrilled to welcome the newly elected Junior City Council Executive to Council soon. Their energy and passion for leadership are exactly what they need to inspire more young people to become actively involved in Local Government. He added in his statement that he is looking forward to working with them and is seeing their positive impact.
JCC designed to empower Grade 10 and 11 learners, that provides an unparalleled platform for young leaders to develop their skills, build confidence and embrace their potential as change-makers.
However, the City of Cape Town remain committed to nurture the next generation of civic leaders, ensuring that they become outstanding ambassadors for their communities. The JCC continues to deliver on its mandate if fostering active youth participation in local government.